Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast

Expedition

See spectacular Croatia on this 2-Week guided tour including a week-long luxury cruise.

EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW

See spectacular Croatia on this 2-Week guided tour including a week-long luxury cruise. Enjoy a mix of medieval and modern sightseeing with a Local Expert in Zagreb. See hundreds of waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes National Park, then journey to the Opatija Riviera for striking views of the Adriatic Sea. Hunt for truffles with a local farmer and his hound dogs in Istria. Explore the Museum of Apoxyomenos, allowing you unparalleled access to its 2,000-year-old Greek bronze statue. Savour oysters straight from the sea in the picturesque fishing village of Mali Ston, then tour the marble streets of Old Town Dubrovnik with a Local Expert. Later, choose to walk the city’s expansive walls or visit its world-class museums.

highlights

Dining Summary

5 Dinner (D)
13 Breakfast (B)
10 Lunch (L)

Choice Highlights

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Vis: A true highlight of your journey is a visit to the island of Vis, influenced by great European civilizations then serving as an isolated Yugoslavian naval base until 1989. Inspect this military heritage closer with your Local Expert. Tour the town’s famous Military tunnels, a 20 km underground network featuring tunnels, caves, mines and storage facilities.
Vis: Explore the scenic beauty of the island with your Local Expert, as you visit secluded coves, tiny villages with red-roofed houses and beautiful nature trails.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Dubrovnik:
Dubrovnik: With your included Dubrovnik Pass hike around the impressive City Walls and take in the mesmerising views of the myriad of red roofs and the dazzling Adriatic.

Additional Included Highlights

You will be escorted by one of our fine Travel Concierges, handpicked to serve as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary, available on departures with 15 or more guests.
At every hotel, you'll be treated to seamless baggage handling, with prompt delivery inside your room.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
Complimentary, airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Guests will be transferred with fellow Luxury Gold Travellers that arrive on the same flight. Complimentary, private train station transfers are included when train travel is included within the itinerary. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city of the itinerary, may be requested but are not guaranteed.

Exceptional Dining

Istria: Learn about the aromatic 'black diamonds' and join a local farmer and his well-trained hounds to hunt for truffle, and sample a selection of salamis, spreads and cheeses prepared with this gourmet delicacy.
Skradin: Specialists in boutique wine production, the Bibich vineyards are over 500 years old. With a deep devotion to the native grape and a strong respect for the land, the vintners of Bibich represent generations of family vintners. Taste some of the finest Croatian wines, paired expertly with tapas, for a true flavour of the region.

Journey Highlights

Zagreb: Join your Local Expert on an orientation city tour showcasing the charming atmosphere of the lower town then travel to the medieval upper town by funicular to see the colourful Church of St. Mark and Lotrščak Tower.
Pula: Truly magnificent, the colossal Pula Arena was built in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, around the same time as the Colosseum of Rome. As you stroll its vast interior, picture the fierce gladiator battles that once took place here in front of 20,000 spectators.
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Visit this scenic wonderland of 16 interconnecting lakes, flanked by waterfalls and primeval forest. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you follow your Local Expert across zig-zagging timber footbridges and learn about the Park’s invaluable research work and conservation of its native species.
Split: Join your Local Expert for a city tour of Split. Visit Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the winding streets and see the Roman-era buildings. Continue your highlight tour with stops at St. Duje's, the Temple of Jupiter and the Golden Gate.
Kornati National Park: Sail through the maze of the 89 rocky islands in the Kornati National Park and take time to relax and recharge as you cruise past ruins of the ancient Illyrian fortress, Roman villas, and medieval settlements.
Discover the natural wonders of Telašćica Bay, one of the most beautiful locations on the Adriatic, with an expert guide. Learn about the formation of the Salt Lake following the last Ice Age. Located inland in a karst depression, the intriguing lake is filled through underground cracks and limestone channels fed by the sea, from which it is separated by only a narrow strip of rock. And admire the iconic white cliffs. Towering 162 metres tall and gleaming out over the deep blue ocean, these are some of the steepest cliffs to rise out over the Adriatic.
Zadar: Join your Local Expert to see the remains of the 1st century Roman Forum, admire the 9th century St Donatus Basilica, and walk through the 16th century Venetian city walls.
Zadar: Visit the modern Sea Organ and take a moment to enjoy the symphony of sounds generated by the waves.
Krka National Park: Admire the beauty and power of nature as you stroll shaded paths with cascades all around you. The spectacular waterfalls of Krka National Park are formed from the Krka and Čikola Rivers. Formed like a series of terraces, they spill over 17 travertine steps in a series of cascades, creating the mighty Skradinski Buk waterfall, which towers 45 meters high. Despite the power of the rushing waters, the pool below remains so tranquil it is possible to swim right up to the base of the falls.
Šibenik: With an Local Expert, explore this charming city of sun, sea and stone. Built on rocks and constructed with rocks, Šibenik is filled with incredible historical sites, beautiful seaside hangouts, and quaint alleys and squares. Meander through the maze of streets and admire 15th century architecture, including City Hall and the Cathedral of St. James.
Weather permitting, be among the first to visit the magnificent Blue Cave, a natural wonder offering an incredibly rich palette of blue.
Dubrovnik: Once the sun has lowered and the crowds have disappeared join your Local Expert for a memorable evening sightseeing walk through the marble streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and see the Rector’s Palace, St. Blaise’s Cathedral and the Dominican Monastery.

Luxury Hotels

With a long history of excellent service, dating back to the mid 1920s, the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel harmoniously blends its art nouveau and art deco heritage with contemporary finishes. The hotel's central location makes it a convenient base for your two-night stay as you explore the city and its surrounds. Guest rooms reflect Hollywood glamour, decorated with classic and elegant style, ensuring you will be most comfortable throughout your stay.
Dubrovnik: The historic Hilton Imperial, Dubrovnik blends the charm of the late 1800s with modern styling on the edge of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. The Hilton Imperial is perfectly situated to take in views of the Adriatic Sea as well as exploration of Pile Gate, the Lovrijenac Fort and Šulić beach.

Personalize your day

Vis: A true highlight of your journey is a visit to the island of Vis, influenced by great European civilizations then serving as an isolated Yugoslavian naval base until 1989. Inspect this military heritage closer with your Local Expert. Tour the town’s famous Military tunnels, a 20 km underground network featuring tunnels, caves, mines and storage facilities.
Vis: Explore the scenic beauty of the island with your Local Expert, as you visit secluded coves, tiny villages with red-roofed houses and beautiful nature trails.
Dubrovnik:
Dubrovnik: With your included Dubrovnik Pass hike around the impressive City Walls and take in the mesmerising views of the myriad of red roofs and the dazzling Adriatic.

VIP Experiences

Mali Losinj: Embark on an exclusive and immersive exploration of the Museum of Apoxymenos. Get to know the story of the 2000-year-old Greek bronze statue, perfectly preserved in the nearby seabed, and housed in the thoughtfully designed museum.

Well-being

Our customised luxury coaches are sanitised before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customised luxury coaches.
Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travel Concierges, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Highlights

Dining Summary

5 Dinner (D)
13 Breakfast (B)
10 Lunch (L)

Choice Highlights

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Vis: A true highlight of your journey is a visit to the island of Vis, influenced by great European civilizations then serving as an isolated Yugoslavian naval base until 1989. Inspect this military heritage closer with your Local Expert. Tour the town’s famous Military tunnels, a 20 km underground network featuring tunnels, caves, mines and storage facilities.
Vis: Explore the scenic beauty of the island with your Local Expert, as you visit secluded coves, tiny villages with red-roofed houses and beautiful nature trails.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Dubrovnik:
Dubrovnik: With your included Dubrovnik Pass hike around the impressive City Walls and take in the mesmerising views of the myriad of red roofs and the dazzling Adriatic.

Additional Included Highlights

You will be escorted by one of our fine Travel Concierges, handpicked to serve as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary, available on departures with 15 or more guests.
At every hotel, you'll be treated to seamless baggage handling, with prompt delivery inside your room.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
Complimentary, airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Guests will be transferred with fellow Luxury Gold Travellers that arrive on the same flight. Complimentary, private train station transfers are included when train travel is included within the itinerary. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city of the itinerary, may be requested but are not guaranteed.

Exceptional Dining

Istria: Learn about the aromatic 'black diamonds' and join a local farmer and his well-trained hounds to hunt for truffle, and sample a selection of salamis, spreads and cheeses prepared with this gourmet delicacy.
Skradin: Specialists in boutique wine production, the Bibich vineyards are over 500 years old. With a deep devotion to the native grape and a strong respect for the land, the vintners of Bibich represent generations of family vintners. Taste some of the finest Croatian wines, paired expertly with tapas, for a true flavour of the region.

Journey Highlights

Zagreb: Join your Local Expert on an orientation city tour showcasing the charming atmosphere of the lower town then travel to the medieval upper town by funicular to see the colourful Church of St. Mark and Lotrščak Tower.
Pula: Truly magnificent, the colossal Pula Arena was built in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, around the same time as the Colosseum of Rome. As you stroll its vast interior, picture the fierce gladiator battles that once took place here in front of 20,000 spectators.
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Visit this scenic wonderland of 16 interconnecting lakes, flanked by waterfalls and primeval forest. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you follow your Local Expert across zig-zagging timber footbridges and learn about the Park’s invaluable research work and conservation of its native species.
Split: Join your Local Expert for a city tour of Split. Visit Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the winding streets and see the Roman-era buildings. Continue your highlight tour with stops at St. Duje's, the Temple of Jupiter and the Golden Gate.
Kornati National Park: Sail through the maze of the 89 rocky islands in the Kornati National Park and take time to relax and recharge as you cruise past ruins of the ancient Illyrian fortress, Roman villas, and medieval settlements.
Discover the natural wonders of Telašćica Bay, one of the most beautiful locations on the Adriatic, with an expert guide. Learn about the formation of the Salt Lake following the last Ice Age. Located inland in a karst depression, the intriguing lake is filled through underground cracks and limestone channels fed by the sea, from which it is separated by only a narrow strip of rock. And admire the iconic white cliffs. Towering 162 metres tall and gleaming out over the deep blue ocean, these are some of the steepest cliffs to rise out over the Adriatic.
Zadar: Join your Local Expert to see the remains of the 1st century Roman Forum, admire the 9th century St Donatus Basilica, and walk through the 16th century Venetian city walls.
Zadar: Visit the modern Sea Organ and take a moment to enjoy the symphony of sounds generated by the waves.
Krka National Park: Admire the beauty and power of nature as you stroll shaded paths with cascades all around you. The spectacular waterfalls of Krka National Park are formed from the Krka and Čikola Rivers. Formed like a series of terraces, they spill over 17 travertine steps in a series of cascades, creating the mighty Skradinski Buk waterfall, which towers 45 meters high. Despite the power of the rushing waters, the pool below remains so tranquil it is possible to swim right up to the base of the falls.
Šibenik: With an Local Expert, explore this charming city of sun, sea and stone. Built on rocks and constructed with rocks, Šibenik is filled with incredible historical sites, beautiful seaside hangouts, and quaint alleys and squares. Meander through the maze of streets and admire 15th century architecture, including City Hall and the Cathedral of St. James.
Weather permitting, be among the first to visit the magnificent Blue Cave, a natural wonder offering an incredibly rich palette of blue.
Dubrovnik: Once the sun has lowered and the crowds have disappeared join your Local Expert for a memorable evening sightseeing walk through the marble streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town and see the Rector’s Palace, St. Blaise’s Cathedral and the Dominican Monastery.

Luxury Hotels

With a long history of excellent service, dating back to the mid 1920s, the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel harmoniously blends its art nouveau and art deco heritage with contemporary finishes. The hotel's central location makes it a convenient base for your two-night stay as you explore the city and its surrounds. Guest rooms reflect Hollywood glamour, decorated with classic and elegant style, ensuring you will be most comfortable throughout your stay.
Dubrovnik: The historic Hilton Imperial, Dubrovnik blends the charm of the late 1800s with modern styling on the edge of Dubrovnik’s Old Town. The Hilton Imperial is perfectly situated to take in views of the Adriatic Sea as well as exploration of Pile Gate, the Lovrijenac Fort and Šulić beach.

Personalize your day

Vis: A true highlight of your journey is a visit to the island of Vis, influenced by great European civilizations then serving as an isolated Yugoslavian naval base until 1989. Inspect this military heritage closer with your Local Expert. Tour the town’s famous Military tunnels, a 20 km underground network featuring tunnels, caves, mines and storage facilities.
Vis: Explore the scenic beauty of the island with your Local Expert, as you visit secluded coves, tiny villages with red-roofed houses and beautiful nature trails.
Dubrovnik:
Dubrovnik: With your included Dubrovnik Pass hike around the impressive City Walls and take in the mesmerising views of the myriad of red roofs and the dazzling Adriatic.

VIP Experiences

Mali Losinj: Embark on an exclusive and immersive exploration of the Museum of Apoxymenos. Get to know the story of the 2000-year-old Greek bronze statue, perfectly preserved in the nearby seabed, and housed in the thoughtfully designed museum.

Well-being

Our customised luxury coaches are sanitised before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customised luxury coaches.
Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travel Concierges, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Trip details

Trip Type: Group Tour

Comfort: Deluxe

Travel Styles: Family, 55+, Luxury

Starts: Zagreb, Croatia (Hrvatska)

Finishes: Dubrovnik, Croatia (Hrvatska)

Duration: 14 days

ITINERARY

1Day 1: Welcome to Zagreb

Your Croatia luxury tour begins with a private chauffeur to your luxurious hotel. Tonight, dine on a selection of traditional Croatian dishes.

Accommodation: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel.
Meals: Dinner

2Day 2: Zagreb Sightseeing Relaxed Start

Encounter Zagreb’s Ban Josip Jelačić Square. Ascend the Upper Town via funicular for panoramic views before continuing to the Opatija Riviera, once a favourite seaside retreat of the elite.

Accommodation: Amadria Park Hotel Milenij, Opatija.
Meals: Breakfast

3Day 3: Pula and Istria

Discover one of the best-preserved Roman Amphitheaters in the city of Pula. Experience the thrill of truffle-hunting at the family owned and operated Prodan Tartufi

Accommodation: Amadria Park Hotel Milenij, Opatija.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

4Day 4: Plitvice Lakes National Park

At the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes, be mesmerised by the waterfalls and turquoise waters as you snake your way around the boardwalks. Continue to the charming seaport city of Split.

Accommodation: Hotel Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

5Day 5: Board your Adriatic Cruise Relaxed Start

Soak up Split’s Old Town including the remains of Diocletian’s Palace before boarding your cruise ship for your week sailing the Adriatic. Voyage to Primosten, savouring a delicious dinner on board.

Accommodation: Rhapsody, Katarina Line.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

6Day 6: The Islands of Kornati National Park and Telašćica Bay Relaxed Start

Sail through Kornati National Park’s maze of jewel-like islands past ruins and Roman villas. Swim in crystal clear waters before arriving in Telašćica Bay flanked by famous White Cliffs.

Accommodation: Rhapsody, Katarina Line.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

7Day 7: Mali Lošinj Relaxed Start

Cruise to the island of Lošinj touring Mali Lošinj town’s harbor and historic quarter. Enjoy a private tour of the Museum of Apoxyomenos, home of the preserved 2000-year-old bronze statue.

Accommodation: Rhapsody, Katarina Line.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

8Day 8: Explore Zadar Relaxed Start

Admire the Roman Forum, St. Donatus Basilica’s and Venetian city walls. Experience a symphony of sound from the Sea Organ.

Accommodation: Rhapsody, Katarina Line.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

9Day 9: Krka National Park Waterfalls Relaxed Start

At the acclaimed Bibich Winery indulge in Croatian wines and a tapas lunch. See the cascading waterfalls of Krka National Park’s and Sibenik’s 15th-century cathedral. Conclude with a Captain’s Dinner and live entertainment.

Accommodation: Rhapsody, Katarina Line.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

10Day 10: The Rustic Charm of Vis Relaxed Start

Escape to the remote island of Vis. Learn the island’s military heritage or focus on its natural beauty and history.

Accommodation: Rhapsody, Katarina Line.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

11Day 11: Blue Cave and Split

Be among the first visitors to the magnificent Blue Cave (weather permitting) with its mesmerizing hues of cerulean and azure. Relax on deck as you cruise on to Split.

Accommodation: Rhapsody, Katarina Line.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

12Day 12: Oyster Tasting and Dubrovnik

Savor fresh oysters in the fishing village of Mali Ston. Arrive at your historic hotel just outside Dubrovnik's city walls and view the Rector’s Palace, St. Blaise’s Cathedral and the Dominican Monastery with a Local Expert.

Accommodation: Hilton Dubrovnik.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

13Day 13: Dubrovnik Your Way Relaxed Start

Stroll the city walls, taking in the red roofs juxtaposed against the blue of the Adriatic. Or, visit the Franciscan Monastery Museum or Maritime Museum. Tonight, raise a glass with an elegant dinner at local restuarant.

Accommodation: Hilton Dubrovnik.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

14Day 14: Farewell Dubrovnik

Conclude your Zagreb to Dubrovnik tour with a private transfer to Dubrovnik Airport.

Meals: Breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Partner Details

Luxury Gold

In Business Since 1978

A world of immersive journeys awaits you, each with VIP experiences, exceptional dining, magnificent hotels and a Travelling Concierge who’s there to tailor everything to your desires.